The purpose of the Planning Board is to carry out planning functions for Winston-Salem and Forsyth County as required by law or as assigned by the governing boards. As an advisory board, its duties include preparing and maintaining a long range general development plan for the entire county, including such considerations as the development of land and the location of streets and roads, playgrounds and open spaces, public buildings, and utilities.

The Commission is the policy-making board for all water and sewage facilities operated by the City, having the same authority and responsibility as the City or the County to fix rates, charges, and assessments, and to provide for improvements and extensions to such facilities, with the exception that the Commission has no authority to issue bonds or incur any debt without prior approval of the City Council.

The Winston-Salem Zoning Board of Adjustment hears zoning-related appeals and requests for permits and variances. Access information on this board, as well as agendas for other zoning boards in the area.